MUMBAI, NOV 8: The State Government on Monday said that cases would be registered against mill owners immediately for non-payment of wages to the labourers, said Minister for Labour, Awkaf and Ports Hussain Dalwai.The minister while addressing a press conference said that the government would hold a meeting with the leaders of the main labour unions on November 16 to discuss the problems of the mill workers and accordingly find a solution.Giving details, he said that there are 3.10 crore labourers with 2.33 crore in the unorganised sector. He stressed the need of providing security to the workers. Dalwai pointed out that 3,515 factories in the State are shut with 93,000 workers jobless.On a question that a bowling alley has been started by Shiv Sena MP Pritish Nandy on the premises of Phoenix mills which is closed, Dalwai said that he was unaware of such a development and was rather shocked to hear about it. He said that he would approach the affected workers at once and would take quick action if there was any illegal activity which would be stopped. The minister said that he would personally look into the matter.Dalwai who also holds the Ports portfolio said that the government also plans to start waterways between Nariman Point and Borivli and Gateway of India and Mulund. He said that stops to halt the launches between the routes were also being discussed. At present both the routes are being studied, he added.He further pointed out that various factors like feasibility, operating the waterways for all the 12 months, parking space for the launches etc were also being discussed. The minister said that it has also been decided to start an inter-State waterway from Bandra.He further pointed out that as many as 48 minor ports in the State are inactive. Dalwai said that seven ports like Vadhvan, Dighi, Jaigad, Ganeshpuri, Vijaydurg, Redi and Anjavale could be developed.The minister who holds the Awkaf department said that the department would work towards the welfare of the Muslim community. He said a separate board would be established which would comprise of senior leaders, thinkers and journalists.
